Ranson's criteria

Ranson's criteria use five features at admission and six during the first 48 hours. The thresholds differ for gallstone pancreatitis. The score is only complete at 48 hours.

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Interpretation

A score of 3 or more predicts severe pancreatitis. Mortality rises steeply with the score, from very low at 0 to 2 to around 40% at 5 to 6 in the original series. The revised Atlanta classification, based on organ failure, is now preferred for defining severity.

References

Ranson JH, Rifkind KM, Roses DF, et al. Prognostic signs and the role of operative management in acute pancreatitis. Surg Gynecol Obstet. 1974;139(1):69-81.

Ranson JH. Etiological and prognostic factors in human acute pancreatitis: a review. Am J Gastroenterol. 1982;77(9):633-638.